Today’s vehicles deliver more performance than ever, as each year’s models bring new features for safety and convenience. (Wireless phone charging, anyone?) But your vehicle is still a complex machine that needs to be actively maintained. And that all starts with routine oil changes and the right engine oil. Because if the engine isn’t running properly, nothing else matters.
Not to worry, though. Maintaining your vehicle’s oil is easier than you might think, and Jiffy Lube® is here with the answers to your biggest questions.
HOW MUCH IS AN OIL CHANGE?
Now on to everyone’s favorite question: how much does an oil change cost, exactly? The price of your oil change will depend on a few factors, including the amount of oil required, the type of oil that is used, and the ease of performing the oil change.
To determine the type of oil that’s best, your technician will consult the manufacturer’s recommendations and ask you for your personal preference. Some drivers prefer conventional oil, while others select full synthetic oil, synthetic blend, or high mileage oils . If recommended by your technician, it’s okay to use a different brand than you’ve used in the past, as long as the oil meets the viscosity grade and specifications listed in your owner manual. Contact your local Jiffy Lube® for pricing based on your vehicle and the type of oil that’s right for you.
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DO OIL CHANGES PROTECT YOUR ENGINE?
They certainly do. Your motor oil is one of the most important elements inside your vehicle, because it lubricates all the moving pieces in the engine and keeps it running properly. The oil reduces friction, transfers heat, and absorbs the byproducts of combustion to prevent the engine from overheating.
Think about it this way: if you’re feeling really hungry, your ability to do work starts to suffer, right? Your engine is that way too. Oil is like food for the components inside the engine and makes it possible for them to do their jobs. If oil gets too low or is no longer fresh, it can lead to sticking piston rings, overheating, or even decreased engine life. So by changing the oil, you’re protecting the most important parts of the engine.
HOW MUCH OIL DOES MY CAR NEED?
If we had a nickel for every time someone asked us, “How much oil does my car need,” well, we’d have a lot. The truth is, it depends on what kind of vehicle you have. In the past, almost all cars and trucks required five quarts of oil for an oil change. But now, with the greater range of engines found in modern vehicles, that number can range from four quarts to 10 quarts or more. Ask the trained technicians at Jiffy Lube® how much oil is appropriate for your vehicle and if there’s an oil that could improve your vehicle’s performance. They can recommend a quality Pennzoil® product that meets your manufacturer’s guidelines for engine oil.
HOW DO I KNOW WHAT TO DO WHEN MY OIL LIGHT COMES ON?
When the oil light on your dashboard is illuminated, it means your vehicle needs service: likely an oil change and a new oil filter. Take your vehicle to a service center with trained technicians, like your local Jiffy Lube. At Jiffy Lube®, your technician will do more than just replace your oil and filter and put a reminder sticker on your windshield. They’ll also perform a full courtesy inspection, including inspecting your vehicle’s battery, fluids, lights, and belts. Additionally, they’ll check and adjust your tire pressure, clean your exterior windows, and vacuum the carpets inside your vehicle.
CAN’T I JUST TOP OFF THE OIL MYSELF?
Your oil can be topped off in an emergency situation, but it’s not a replacement for a proper oil change. That’s because the old, worn out oil is still trapped in the system. And when it mixes with the new oil, it keeps that fresh oil from working as well as it should. So a complete oil change involves draining the oil from a drain plug located on the bottom of your engine, under the vehicle.
Recently, some technicians have developed a suction method that removes the oil by siphoning rather than draining. But regardless of which method is used, it’s essential that the old oil is removed and that oil changes are performed as often as your manufacturer recommends.
Following those recommendations is critical. So when you’re evaluating a service center, don’t just ask, “How much is an oil change here?” Make sure to ask whether their technicians follow the guidelines set by your automaker. At Jiffy Lube®, that’s what we do every day. And whether your vehicle needs an oil change, new brakes, or you just want an inspection, the technicians at your local Jiffy Lube® are always eager to help.
READ MORE ABOUT IT
If you’re wondering whether the “three months or 3,000 miles” rule still applies for oil changes, we’ve got you covered.
Can you mix synthetic oil with regular oil? The answer may surprise you.
Please note: Not all services are offered at each Jiffy Lube® location. Please check with your local Jiffy Lube® service center or visit jiffylube.com for specific services offered.
FAQs
An oil change is an important and frequent maintenance task for any vehicle, so you want to make sure mechanics don't overcharge you. The cost of an oil change can vary between $20 and $150, depending on various factors.
Is $100 too much for an oil change? ›
An oil change is an important and frequent maintenance task for any vehicle, so you want to make sure mechanics don't overcharge you. The cost of an oil change can vary between $20 and $150, depending on various factors.
How much oil is included in an oil change? ›
A full-service oil change includes up to 5 quarts of ValvolineTM oil, new oil filter and lubrication of chassis components according to your vehicle manufacturer's specifications. For an oil change, find a Valvoline Instant Oil Change near you.
What is included with a typical oil change? ›
What Is Included in a Full-Service Oil Change? When you get a full-service change, an auto technician will change your car's motor oil with the type that it needs, which could be conventional, synthetic, synthetic blend, or high-mileage oil. You'll also have your used oil and oil filter replaced and recycled.
How much is too much oil change? ›
If the oil level is a little above the full mark, that shouldn't cause problems. If it's overfilled by half a quart or more, or foam shows on the dipstick, the best fix is to have the oil drained and refilled to the proper level.
Is $120 a lot for an oil change? ›
Typically, an oil and filter change using conventional oil will cost between $35 and $75, depending on your area. If your car requires synthetic oil, you should expect to pay more (anywhere from $65 to $125) but you make up some of the cost, since synthetic oil lasts longer and has to be changed less frequently.
Is $60 expensive for an oil change? ›
However, since the typical range for an oil change is between $35 to $125, a $60 price tag may not be that expensive.
What determines the price of an oil change? ›
The price of your oil change will depend on a few factors, including the amount of oil required, the type of oil that is used, and the ease of performing the oil change. To determine the type of oil that's best, your technician will consult the manufacturer's recommendations and ask you for your personal preference.
Does an oil change include a filter? ›
The oil filter catches these contaminants and prevents them from re-entering the engine. During an oil change, the old oil filter is removed and replaced with a new one to ensure continued filtration of contaminants. This fresh filter works in tandem with the new oil to keep your engine operating at peak efficiency.
What usually comes with an oil change? ›
Put simply an oil change is when you take out the motor oil from your engine and put back in new motor oil. During an oil change you also have to change the oil filter and put on a new one. The oil and oil filter do so much for your engine that getting regular oil changes is the best way to keep your vehicle healthy.
AIR FILTER REPLACEMENT
We'll inspect your air filter as part of our free maintenance check – every time you purchase a full service oil change. We can replace your cabin air filter as well.
What mileage is a good oil change? ›
And while the old rule of thumb was to change your oil every 3,000 miles or so, modern automotive technology has stretched that figure even further. Due to better engineering and better oil formulations, now you can expect between 7,500 to 10,000 miles between oil changes!
What fluids are topped off in an oil change? ›
With every Jiffy Lube Signature Service® Oil Change, we provide complimentary fluid top off service on vital fluids including motor oil (the same type of oil purchased originally), transmission, power steering, differential/transfer case and washer fluid.
Why did my oil change cost so much? ›
"The simple truth is there's a lot of factors that go into making up that price," Stadtler said. They include the current price of oil and the amount needed, the type of vehicle, labor, and the complexity of the job — especially since newer cars have more parts to navigate.
Is $40 good for an oil change? ›
A regular oil change might run around $40-$50. If your car calls for (or you opt for) synthetic oil, the price range rises to somewhere between $70-$120 and could top out at more than that.
What happens if you go 5000 miles over an oil change? ›
The accumulation of too many miles after the prescribed oil change interval can cause the oil to lose its lubricity due to the excessive build-up of dirt, dust, and other potential contaminants. The knock-on effect is increased friction between the moving part, significantly reducing the performance output of the car.
Is $70 a lot for an oil change? ›
An oil change costs from $20 to $100 at quick lube shops. Check your owners manual to ensure you don't pay for unnecessary add-ons.
Is $80 a lot for an oil change? ›
An oil change can cost up to $100
Depending on a few factors, the cost of an oil change is anywhere between $20 and $100 if you have someone else do it, like a car repair/lube shop or dealership. If you can do it yourself, you're looking at about $30 to $50.
Is it worth it to get expensive oil change? ›
Oil changes cost money, though they are affordable. Even if you use full synthetic oil, you'll be saving a considerable sum of money in future repairs. Paying these costs now allows you to protect your vehicle and maintain the engine's quality, which makes this service worth the money.
